Janey Promises Transparency, But Withholds Records Of Boston Police Officers Accused Of Misconduct

Howard is quoted in this WBUR new story: Janey Promises Transparency, But Withholds Records Of Boston Police Officers Accused Of Misconduct.

After two high-profile scandals involving leaders of the Boston Police Department—Commissioner Dennis White and former patrolman’s union president Patrick Rose—Mayor Kim Janey repeatedly promised to be more transparent about police officers who are accused of misconduct. She has not yet followed through on this promise. WBUR requested public records about officer misconduct over three months ago, and the City has not responded although the public records law requires a response within 10 business days.

The withheld police misconduct records include information about 13 officers who were found to have committed domestic violence. Howard Friedman, other civil rights attorneys, and advocates for sexual assault survivors are quoted as criticizing this secrecy. Laws designed to protect the identity of victims of sexual assault should not be used to protect the identity of police officers accused of sexual assault, particularly when a complaint is sustained against an officer. Access to these police misconduct investigations is necessary for the public to hold police officers accountable.